Success of IoT devices & applications relies on transition to 4G LTE & other technologies
Regardless which cellular carrier your organization uses, 2G and 3G networks are going away (or are already gone). While some carriers have announced shutoff dates and others haven’t made any public announcements, the end is inevitable. It’s been a good run, right?
Many companies and public sector agencies stopped using 2G/3G a long time ago, but this shutoff will be a big deal for those enterprises that do still use it for IoT use cases.
What will happen when 2G and 3G are turned off?
For organizations that aren’t prepared for the 2G/3G shutoff, the tumult and uproar will be noticeable. Just consider the many essential functions that rely on IoT amid ongoing digital transformation.
- Industrial equipment control
- Remote asset monitoring
- Temperature monitoring in restaurant freezers
- Surveillance cameras providing access to mission-critcal footage at a moment’s notice
- Important utility controls
- Digital signs providing real-time public safety information
- ATMs
- Kiosks
The list of mission-critical IoT applications is practically never-ending. If you haven’t upgraded to 4G LTE by the time 2G/3G are turned off, such applications could go down at a very inopportune time — putting your organization at risk of huge blows to reputation, the bottom line, and even the public’s well-being.
What should organizations use instead of 2G/3G?
In preparation for the 2G/3G shutdown, the natural step forward is an upgrade to 4G LTE. For maximum flexibility, many organizations are choosing to deploy cloud-managed 4G LTE routers and gateways that have built-in modems with multiple SIM slots. Ideally, wireless gateways and routers are easy to scale as networking needs change. They also should be able to be monitored, managed, and updated remotely, including troubleshooting without expensive and time-intensive truck rolls.
What’s the next step before the 2G/3G shutdown?
The looming 2G/3G shutdown serves as an opportunity to deploy future-proof IoT solutions that prioritize both network connectivity and security.
Organizations should choose a right-sized wireless edge solution based on their specific bandwidth needs and budget parameters. Cradlepoint’s routers and gateways range from Category 1 LTE devices (up to 10 Mbps) for keeping IoT assets up and running to Category 18 LTE modems with Gigabit-Class LTE that can enable a whole host of new applications. Some enterprises may also choose lower-speed, lower-power options such as narrowband (NB-IoT), Category M LTE, or even WiFi.
Upgrading to 4G LTE Today
Learn more about how Cradlepoint’s Gigabit-Class LTE edge networking solutions will put your organization on the Pathway to 5G, enabling innovations as unique and innovative as your imagination.
